Everything to Do in Arlington, Texas: The Ultimate Visitor Guide

Arlington, Texas is often known as the home of the Dallas Cowboys and Texas Rangers, but this city offers much more than professional sports. Located between Dallas and Fort Worth, Arlington combines world-class entertainment, theme parks, outdoor recreation, museums, shopping, and dining into one exciting destination.

Whether you're visiting for a baseball game, football weekend, family vacation, or road trip through Texas, this guide covers everything you need to know about the best things to do in Arlington.

Why Visit Arlington, Texas?

Arlington attracts more than 15 million visitors annually thanks to its major attractions, sports venues, entertainment districts, and family-friendly activities. It is also one of the host cities for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Everything to Do in Arlington

If you're planning a weekend getaway or visiting for a Texas Rangers game, you'll quickly discover there is far more to Arlington than professional sports. From thrilling roller coasters and water parks to museums, outdoor recreation, shopping, and nightlife, visitors can easily fill an entire vacation exploring the city. Many travelers combine their trip with a visit to Globe Life Field using our comprehensive Rangers Stadium Guide to plan game day, parking, hotels, and nearby attractions.

Sports and Entertainment Attractions

Tour AT&T Stadium

Home of the Dallas Cowboys, AT&T Stadium is one of the most impressive sports venues in the United States. Even if you aren't attending a game, guided tours allow visitors to explore the locker rooms, luxury suites, field level, and the famous giant video board. The stadium will also host multiple matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Watch a Game at Globe Life Field

Baseball fans won't want to miss the home of the Texas Rangers. The retractable-roof stadium provides a comfortable experience year-round and hosts concerts and special events in addition to baseball games.

Visit Choctaw Stadium

Previously home to the Texas Rangers, this venue now hosts soccer, football, and various sporting events throughout the year.

Theme Parks and Family Fun

Spend a Day at Six Flags Over Texas

As the original Six Flags park, this iconic attraction features more than 100 rides, shows, and attractions. Thrill seekers can enjoy world-famous roller coasters, while families will find plenty of kid-friendly rides and entertainment. The park continues to add major attractions, including the record-breaking Tormenta Rampaging Run coaster.

Cool Off at Six Flags Hurricane Harbor

Texas summers can be hot, making Hurricane Harbor one of the most popular seasonal attractions in Arlington. The water park features slides, lazy rivers, wave pools, splash zones, and family attractions.

Museums and History

Explore the National Medal of Honor Museum

One of Arlington's newest attractions, this museum tells the stories of Medal of Honor recipients through interactive exhibits, immersive experiences, and personal accounts of courage and service.

Visit the International Bowling Museum and Hall of Fame

Even if you're not a bowler, this unique museum offers fascinating exhibits on the history of the sport, legendary players, and interactive displays.

Tour Top O' Hill Terrace

Known as "Vegas Before Vegas," this historic site once operated as a gambling destination during the Prohibition era. Today visitors can take guided tours and learn about Arlington's colorful past.

Outdoor Activities

Discover River Legacy Park

Nature lovers will appreciate more than 1,300 acres of hardwood forest, hiking trails, biking paths, picnic areas, and wildlife viewing opportunities. The park is home to hundreds of bird species and serves as one of North Texas's most beautiful urban green spaces.

Visit the River Legacy Nature Center

Located within the park, the nature center features educational exhibits, wildlife programs, and family-friendly activities.

Dining and Nightlife

Experience Texas Live!

Situated between Globe Life Field and AT&T Stadium, Texas Live! is one of the city's most popular entertainment districts. Visitors can enjoy restaurants, bars, giant viewing screens, live music, special events, and game-day festivities.

Explore Downtown Arlington

Downtown Arlington features locally owned restaurants, breweries, coffee shops, and live entertainment venues. It offers a more relaxed atmosphere compared to the entertainment district near the stadiums.

Shopping in Arlington

Shop at Arlington Highlands

This outdoor shopping center offers dozens of stores, restaurants, entertainment options, and a movie theater. It's a great place to spend an afternoon between attractions.

Browse Antique Shops

Treasure hunters should visit the area's antique malls and specialty shops, including Arlington's popular antique districts.

Best Things to Do in Arlington for Families

Attraction	Best For
Six Flags Over Texas	Thrill rides and family fun
Hurricane Harbor	Summer water adventures
River Legacy Park	Outdoor recreation
National Medal of Honor Museum	Educational experiences
AT&T Stadium Tour	Sports fans
Globe Life Field	Baseball lovers
International Bowling Museum	Interactive family activity

Suggested 2-Day Arlington Itinerary

Day 1

• Tour AT&T Stadium

• Lunch at Texas Live!

• Explore the National Medal of Honor Museum

• Attend a Texas Rangers game at Globe Life Field

Day 2

• Spend the morning at Six Flags Over Texas

• Cool off at Hurricane Harbor

• Enjoy dinner in Downtown Arlington

• Catch live entertainment or nightlife at Texas Live!

FAQ About Arlington, Texas

Is Arlington worth visiting?

Yes. Arlington combines professional sports, major theme parks, outdoor recreation, museums, and entertainment districts in one convenient location.

How many days do you need in Arlington?

Most visitors can experience the highlights in two to three days, though sports fans and theme park enthusiasts may want a longer stay.

What is Arlington most famous for?

Arlington is best known for AT&T Stadium, Globe Life Field, Six Flags Over Texas, and its role as a major entertainment destination in Texas.

Is Arlington good for families?

Absolutely. Families can enjoy theme parks, water parks, museums, nature trails, sporting events, and interactive attractions suitable for all ages.

Final Thoughts

Arlington may be famous for football and baseball, but visitors quickly discover that the city offers much more. From roller coasters and water parks to museums, nature preserves, shopping districts, and nightlife, Arlington delivers a surprisingly diverse experience for travelers of all ages. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or adding Arlington to a larger Texas road trip, you'll find plenty of reasons to stay an extra day.